ISLAMABAD: British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, affirmed the United Kingdom’s strong commitment to deepening investment ties with Pakistan, describing the UK-Pakistan strategic relationship as “two sides of the same coin.”
Addressing the 8th Leaders in Islamabad Business Summit 2025, Marriott praised the forum as a hub for “brilliant minds and meaningful conversations focused on impactful solutions.”
Citing the UK’s global economic footprint, she highlighted its status as the world’s largest provider of financial services, second-largest in business services, and the third-largest economy globally.
Marriott underscored the robust trade relationship between the UK and Pakistan, noting, “Our bilateral trade volume stands at £4.4 billion, and we are ambitiously working towards reaching £10 billion.”
She emphasized that British investments in Pakistan are already active in several vital sectors including healthcare, education, and engineering. “Pakistan is a young, dynamic country full of promise. With the right partnerships, its economy has the potential to grow to $2 trillion,” she stated.
The High Commissioner also lauded Pakistan’s recent economic reforms, acknowledging recognition from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). “The UK commends these reforms and stands ready to support continued progress,” she said.
Marriott revealed that the UK is engaged in a $45 million macroeconomic reform program in Pakistan and is also contributing to clean and green energy initiatives in the power sector. She noted collaboration on key engineering ventures, including the Reko Diq project, and reaffirmed Britain’s support in climate change mitigation efforts.
Concluding her remarks, she extended appreciation to the summit organizers: “I’m grateful to Azfar Ahsan for convening this outstanding conference and gathering global stakeholders committed to Pakistan’s progress.”
